Harold Keller / L’Observateur / September 29, 1999

With the elections less than four weeks away, this year’s political activities seem to be unusually low key. Some people attribute that topeople being turned off on politics. What turns people off? Many say thatregardless of who wins, it’s always politics as usual. Others credit thelack of interest this year to all the scandals that have hit the White House and President Clinton.

I, personally, like politics. It aggravates me when people use the wordpolitics or politicians in a negative way. I agree that all politicians arenot honest or have much integrity. However, you could say that about anyprofession – doctors, lawyers, insurance executives, educators, business people, industry, labor unions, church leaders, etc.

I had the privilege of serving in the Louisiana House of Representatives fro 1964 to 1968. The people honored me by electing me to public service.I have to admit that I wasn’t prepared for the job and, therefore, didn’t perform very well. Was it a great experience? Indeed, it was. I met someof the nicest and most honorable people in politics.

Politics is the art and science of civil government. Many of my closestfriends today are elected officials or politicians.

It’s been said many times that people get the type of government they deserve. Another old saying is that in order for evil to flourish, peoplewith good intentions decide to do nothing. The only thing wrong with ourdemocratic system is that not enough people participate. The reason forthe lack of participation is that many people have the attitude that one person can’t make a difference. The only guarantee that you won’t make adifference is if you refuse to participate in the process by not voting.

Can one person really make a difference? Let’s look back on how one vote made a difference – In 1776, one vote gave America the English language instead of German.

In 1845, one vote brought the state of Texas into the Union.

In 1868, one vote saved President Andrew Johnson from impeachment.

In 1875, one vote changed France from a monarchy to a republic.

In 1923, one vote gave Adolph Hitler control of the Nazi Party.

In 1941, one vote saved the Selective Service System just 12 weeks before Pearl Harbor was attacked.

Getting closer to home, about 30 years ago, Frankie Champagne, a school board member from the West Bank, defeated Milton Cox by one vote.

Approximately 20 years ago, Paul Keller from St. James Parish was re-elected Parish President when he defeated Richard Roussel by two votes.

Never underestimate the power of one. You alone can make a difference!

Harold Keller is a regular columnist for L’Observateur

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